We’d like to give a quick update on the recent Annual Conference held at Bear Valley Resort. It was a great success and APP would like to thank everyone who attended. We couldn’t have done it without your enthusiasm, engagement, and commitment to elevating our role as ski patrollers.

First off, we’d like to congratulate our new certified APP members, including Roman Gallegos (C-0626) from Angel Fire Resort in New Mexico, Jack Dant (C-0627) from Ski Sante Fe in New Mexico, David Brown (C-628) from Mt. Shasta Ski Park in California, and Carl Stewart (C-0629), also from Angel Fire Resort. APP applauds you on your accomplishment.

This year’s conference saw 74 participants from seven states and represented more than 12 resorts. Here’s a breakdown: Arizona (1); West Virginia (1); Colorado (2); Nevada (3); New Mexico (6); Oregon (8); and California (53). Fifty-three written tests were given with 42 certifications while 70 practical tests given resulted in 55 certifications and 12 associates. Norman Li, a first-time attendee of APP’s Annual Conference/Spring Clinic and full-time patroller from Big Bear Mountain Resorts in southern California, was nominated “BCA Candidate of the Conference.” Li certified in toboggan, skiing, risk management, and hill safety.

The women’s forum built on last year’s momentum and, year-over-year, we are seeing an increase in attendance by female patrollers. Of the 74 participants this year, 11 were women, which represents 14% of attendees. The women’s panel led a discussion about creating allies and inclusivity within patrol, and how this relates to building a stronger patrol unit. This year’s panel included Madeline Westbrook, assistant patrol director at Mt. Hood Ski Bowl, Alex Spychalsky, public relations coordinator at Squaw Valley Resort, and Dani Reyes-Acosta, brand strategist and creative consultant at Nomad Creative. Attendees shared stories about their early mentors and the qualities that made them stand out as well as reflected on how we, as patrollers, can become better mentors. APP thanks our panelist for leading such an inspiring conversation.

Also, the Board of Directors elections are underway: there are four board positions open and four people running for election, including Scott Cordner (re-election) from Big Bear Mountain Resorts, Bob Heflin (re-election) from Taos, David Brown from Mt. Shasta Ski Park, and Kacy Carlson from Mt. Ashland.

We’d like to thank our host resort – Bear Valley Resort – and director Mattly Trent. Bear Valley’s terrain, facilities, and service was outstanding and added to the overall success of the Conference. Plus, it was fitting that fifty years ago APP celebrated its first coming together on the slopes of Bear Valley. We’d also like to thank Phil Davis (C-0002), Craig Rice (C-0035), and Stefan Krayk (C-0227) for stopping by, sharing experiences, and spending time with us. Your participation and continued interest in and commitment to the profession of ski patrolling is remarkable.

Again, we appreciate your participation, positive energy, and enthusiasm, we couldn’t have done it without the hard work of our participants, judges, and board members! Have a great summer, stay in touch, and if you’d like to schedule a mid-winter clinic at your resort, let us know.